USS Recumbent Mirror

[mudmin]

I know that there are some other discussions on mirrors, but what do you guys with Under Seat Steering Recumbents do about mirrors.  I hear that mirrors are more important than ever on 'bents.  Just looking for some advice

[ptaylor]

You're right - a mirror is a must on a bent, especially a USS bent like I have. I use a mirror mounted to my helmet.

Paul

[mudmin]

Ok, since I've narrowed down to a helmet mirror, I keep hearing people talk about Blackburn, 3rd Eye, and Gary Harris or something like that.  If it was narrowed down to those choices, which way should I go.  Remember, bar mirrors and glasses mirrors aren't an option for me.

[MichaelTheWingN]

I use the "Take a look" cyclist mirror -- http://westernbikeworks.com/productdetail.asp?p=TLEGM -- I have used it for years...It is far better built then the 3rd Eye and can be mounted to your helmet as well as you glasses or sunglasses...All of the materials of the mirror itself is superior in quality -- coated Plexiglas and has brass or stainless steel throughout -- whereas the 3rd Eye is all plastic! I have only had to replace it once since 2000!

Have a good ride!

Get a bicycle. You will not regret it. If you live. Mark Twain

[FredHiltz]

Blackburn, 3rd Eye, and Gary Harris or something like that.  If it was narrowed down to those choices, which way should I go?

It's very much a personal preference. They all work. My own choice is the Chuck Harris mirror because it never goes out of alignment. Getting it aligned the first time required five minutes with a pair of pliers, though.

As you search this forum and others for opinions, look for the reasons and see which ones fit your own reasoning.

Fred

[bogiesan]

http://www.rei.com/product/723518

I switched to convex bar end mirrors a couple of years ago, many on
the market. As a year-round commuter, I kept breaking or losing my
helmet mounted mirrors.
This unit is easily adapted, with a bit of messing around, to USS
recumbent, however, with the mirror so far away from your eyes, the
convex style doesn't give you much in the way of detail; one reason
USS and trikes tend to use helmet mirrors.

Editorially, it is a myth that, when riding a recumbent, it is more
difficult to turn one's head to check the rear or side. The idea is that
the action tends to swing the bike dangerously. Tosh, just takes
practice. It is, however, a bit tedious so I think we use mirrors more
assertively than upright riders. Still, it's silly not to ride with a mirror,
don't you think? I can't ride anywhere without my mirrors anymore than
I could drive without mirrors.

david boise ID

go, ristretto, FCP/AE
"Read the manual."

[ptaylor]

One brand I do not recommend is Rhode Gear. The little ball & socket wear out too fast. I have had good luck with the Reflex, by CycleAware.

Paul